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This study presents a novel approach to developing high-performance lithium-ion battery electrodes by loading titania-carbon hybrid spherogels with sulfur. The resulting hybrid materials combine high charge storage capacity, electrical conductivity, and core-shell morphology, enabling the development of next-generation battery electrodes. We obtained homogeneous carbon spheres caging crystalline titania particles and sulfur using a template-assisted sol-gel route and carefully treated the titania-loaded carbon spherogels with hydrogen sulfide. The carbon shells maintain their microporous hollow sphere morphology, allowing for efficient sulfur deposition while protecting the titania crystals. By adjusting the sulfur impregnation of the carbon sphere and varying the titania loading, we achieved excellent lithium storage properties by successfully cycling encapsulated sulfur in the sphere while benefiting from the lithiation of titania particles. Without adding a conductive component, the optimized material provided after 150 cycles at a specific current of 250 mA g-1 a specific capacity of 825 mAh g-1 with a Coulombic efficiency of 98%.

Organic-inorganic hybrid nanocomposites are rapidly evolving as a new generation of materials with attractive properties for electrochemical energy storage. Unfortunately, their practical applications in sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) still require further research due to the unsatisfactory cycling stability and rate performance. This work explores using zinc antimony oxide/reduced graphene oxide (ZSO/rGO) hybrid nanocomposite as an anode material in SIBs. After 150 cycles at 0.05 A g−1, the ZSO/rGO electrode delivers a specific capacity of 357.21 mAh g−1 with a coulombic efficiency of 99.3 %, which is almost 2.5-fold higher than the specific capacity of the pristine ZSO electrode. An in-situ Raman spectroscopy study demonstrates that the sodiation/desodiation mechanism in the ZSO/rGO electrode involves the conversion and alloying reactions in the ZSO nanoparticles. Further electrochemistry analysis reveals that the nanocomposite anode shows synergistic effects by coupling diffusion and surface contribution, in which the latter plays an important role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The Bi/Bi 2 O 3 nanoscale particles embedded in N -doped carbon sheets was fabricated. • Two-phase of Bi/Bi2O3 give an alloying/transformation dual-channel mechanism. • The Bi/Bi 2 O 3 @CN-700 anode exhibits visible potassium storage performance. Bismuth-based materials have attracted interest in potassium-ion batteries (PIBs). However, the large volume expansion prevents further use of bismuth-based materials for potassium storage. This work employs a two-step synthesis method to innovatively synthesize of Bi/Bi 2 O 3 nanoparticles assembled on N -doped porous carbon sheets (Bi/Bi 2 O 3 @CN). The layered structures with uniformly shaped and N -doped porous carbon skeleton buffer the expansion of Bi and the Bi/Bi 2 O 3 particles increase the capacity of potassium storage. In brief, the Bi/Bi 2 O 3 @CN served as anode in half-cell of PIBs have a good rate capacity of more than 234.7 mAh/g at 20 A/g. The specific capacity retention was 73 % compared with 322.16 mAh/g at 1 A/g, demonstrating good holding capacity for diverse current densities. The cycle also displays 163 mAh/g after 1500 cycles at 2 A/g in the KPF 6 metal salt solution, showing its potential as one of the anode materials in PIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, sodium‐ion batteries are considered the most promising large‐scale energy storage systems (EESs) due to the low cost and wide distribution of sodium sources as well as the similar working principle to lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). Therefore, screening suitable materials with high abundance, low cost, and excellent reliability and modified with different strategies based on them is the key point for the development of sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs). In addition, the ideal anodes with high abundance, and low cost elements also greatly influence the cost of SIB systems, determining the large‐scale application. Herein, recent advances in carbon, iron, manganese, and phosphorus‐based anodes of various types, such as hard carbon, iron oxides, manganese oxides, and red phosphorus, are highlighted. The various sodium storage mechanisms and structure‐function properties for these four types of materials are summarized and analyzed in detail. Considering the commercial profits that the EESs can bring and their suitability for mass electrode manufacturing, the participation of high‐abundance and low‐cost elements such as Fe, Mn, C, and P is convincing and encouraging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Searching for low‐cost, high‐capacity, high‐power, high‐stability, high‐tap‐density, and inherently safe materials for developing cheap, safe, and high‐performance batteries has always been a research hotspot. Herein, an inherently safe, low‐cost, and low‐strain KTiOPO4 (KTOP) submicron single crystals with a uniform thin layer carbon coating are developed using a ball‐mill assisted solid‐state method. Uniform solid electrolyte interphase, carbon coating, and inherently stable structure synergistically help compact KTOP submicron single crystals achieve an exceptional anodic K‐ion storage performance. The carbon‐coated KTOP single crystals obtained under the carbonization temperature of 400°C (KTOP‐C‐400) can deliver an exceptional potassium ion storage performance of 253.3, 224.0, 175.5, and 131.1 mA h g−1 at the current density of 100, 200, 500, and 1000 mA g−1, respectively, in the electrolyte of 5 M potassium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (KFSI) in DIGLYME electrolytes. Even after being cycled at 1000 mA g−1 for 1000 cycles, the capacity was maintained at 182.5 mA h g−1 with a coulombic efficiency of 99.9%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transition metal selenides (TMSes) are considered promising candidates for the anodes of sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) due to their substantial theoretical capacity. However, TMSes still face with inferior cycling lifespan caused by sluggish Na+ diffusion kinetics and vigorous volume variations during dis/charge processes. Engineering heterostructure is an attractive solution for rapid Na+ transfer, and introducing carbonaceous materials also facilitates enhanced conductivity and structural stability. Herein, CoSe/MoSe2 heterostructure combined with homogeneous carbon composites are rational designed. The kinetic analysis and theoretical calculations verified that heterointerface engineering induced build‐in electric field effect can amplifies the Na+ diffusion kinetics, while carbon contributes to enhanced electrical conductivity and structural stability. Expectedly, the CoSe/MoSe2‐C exhibits high capacity and extremely ultra‐long lifespan (320.9 mAh g−1 at 2.0 A g−1 over 10,000 cycles with an average decay of only 0.01781 mAh g−1 per cycle). Furthermore, in situ X‐ray diffraction (XRD), ex situ X‐ray photoelectorn (XPS), and high‐resolution electron microscopy (HRTEM) are exploited to explore the Na+ storage mechanism. In addition, the Na3V2(PO4)3@rGO//CoSe/MoSe2‐C (NVP@rGO//CoSe/MoSe2‐C) pouch‐type full‐cells are successfully assembled and delivered satisfactory performance. This research presents a viable strategy for the targeted engineering of TMSes aimed at enhancing the efficiency of SIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A vital approach to accessing high‐safety and high‐energy‐density lithium batteries is to develop solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs) instead of liquid electrolytes. However, lithium‐ion transport and interface stability issues puzzle the construction of solid‐state lithium batteries (SSLBs). Thus, developing fast‐ionic conductors with high electrochemical performances and chemical stability is crucial to SSLBs. Nanowires (NWs) possess high aspect ratios for maintaining carrier transport along the radial direction, thus being extensively employed in SSLBs for the enhancement of ion transport efficiency, mechanical properties, thermostability, flame retardancy, and interface stability between electrodes and electrolytes, consequently boosting the cycle stability and safety of SSLBs. In this work, the advances in NWs for SSLBs, from rational design and synthesis strategies to applications in composite cathodes, anode materials, and SSEs of SSLBs, are systematically reviewed. The key role of NWs in electrodes and the enhancement mechanism of SSE performance by introducing NWs are concluded in detail. Finally, the existing challenges and anticipated prospects for the future development of advanced nanowire‐based SSLBs are summarized and demonstrated. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding to facilitate the application of NWs in SSLBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of silicon/graphite composites is a feasible solution for improving the short cycling life of Si-based anodes. However, unsatisfactory solid interfaces and structural integrity impede the achievement of the anticipated electrochemical performance. Herein, naphthalene-based mesophase pitch is used as the carbon precursor to wrap nano-Si/artificial graphite (AG) composites through an impregnation-carbonization route. Structural characterization revealed that the pyrolyzed carbon formed graphitic and porous carbon cages, which not only promoted the transport of charge carriers but also mitigated the expansion of Si particles. After 500 charge–discharge cycles at a high current density of 1000 mA g−1, the anode material with a Si/graphite/pitch mass ratio of 2:5:10 achieved a specific capacity of 432 mAh g−1 and a coulombic efficiency of 99.5%. Considering the facile manufacturing technique, good cycling stability, and rate capability, Si/graphite/C anode materials possess promising industrialization prospects for next-generation lithium-ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicon/carbon (Si/C) composites present great potential as anode materials for rechargeable batteries since the materials integrate the high specific capacity and the preferable cycling stability from Si and C components, respectively. Functional Si/C composites based on lignocellulose have attracted wide attention due to the advantages from lignocellulose, including sustainability property, flexible structural tunability, and diverse physicochemical functionality. Although the flourishing development of rechargeable batteries boosts the studies on lignocellulose‐derived Si/C materials with high electrochemical performance, the publications that comprehensively clarify the design and functionalization of these high‐profile materials are still scarce. Accordingly, this review first systematically summarizes the recent advances in the structural design of lignocellulose‐derived Si/C composites after a brief clarification about the Si selection sources based on self and extraneous sources. Afterward, the functionalization strategies, including nanosizing, porosification, and magnesiothermic reduction of Si material as well as heteroatom modification of C material, are specifically highlighted. Besides, the applications of lignocellulose‐derived Si/C‐based materials in rechargeable batteries are elaborated. Finally, this review discusses the challenges and prospects of the application of lignocellulose‐derived Si/C composites for energy storage and provides a nuanced viewpoint regarding this topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potassium ion batteries (PIBs) are potentially low-cost and high-voltage alternative energy storage systems to lithium-ion batteries. Anode materials with high density and high specific capacity, such as antimony-based materials, are the most sought-after objects. Herein, microtri-prism Sb4O5Cl2 with a uniform size and high compact density of 3.5 g cm–3 is controllably synthesized by the ball-milling-assisted hydrolysis method. Distilled water and absolute ethanol in an optimized volumetric ratio of 2/1 are introduced as reaction solvents to modify the reaction rate and, in turn, control the products' morphology. The ex situ investigation results indicate that the in situ nanolization conversion from microtri-prisms to nanoparticles of Sb4O5Cl2 during the initial discharge process confers Sb4O5Cl2 an exceptional potassium-ion storage performance. The electrochemical measurement results further manifest that potassium-ion storage performance achieved by the Sb4O5Cl2 microtri-prisms is superior to other reported Sb4O5Cl2. At 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 A g–1, K//Sb4O5Cl2 microtri-prisms half PIBs could deliver 501.9, 456.6, 401.1, 325.0, and 249.2 mA h g–1, and retain 193.2 mA h g–1 with a Coulombic efficiency of 99.7% and a capacity retention ratio of 95.1% after 500 cycles at 2.0 mA g–1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article ingeniously adopts a glucose-assisted hydrothermal method to bridge TiO2 nanotubes and MoS2 nanosheets with a multifunctional carbon layer (C), synthesizing three-dimensional (3D) TiO2@C@MoS2 composites. The multifunctional carbon layer bridges MoS2 nanosheets and TiO2 nanotubes by creating C–S and Ti–O–C chemical bonds, which not only reduces the mechanical stress of the composites during charge/discharge cycling and enhances the structural stability of the composites but also improves the overall conductivity of the composites. Furthermore, the one-dimensional (1D) TiO2 nanotubes act as a reliable skeleton for the growth of MoS2 nanosheets, effectively shortening the transport path for ions/electrons. The MoS2 nanosheets on the surface contribute to an increase in active sites for electrochemical reactions, thus bringing about faster charge transfer within the material. As a result, the overall electrochemical properties of the composites are improved. The prepared TiO2@C@MoS2 composites show up to an initial discharge specific capacity of 881.77 mAh g–1, sustaining a capacity retention of 81% even after 200 cycles at 0.2 A g–1. The outstanding specific capacity and impressive cyclic stability are ascribed to the unique synergistic effect of the multifunctional carbon layer bridging TiO2 nanotubes and MoS2 nanosheets. This preparation offers a perspective for the synthesis of other composite materials, broadening the horizons of lithium-ion battery anode research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium‐ion batteries with transition metal sulfides (TMSs) anodes promise a high capacity, abundant resources, and environmental friendliness, yet they suffer from fast degradation and low Coulombic efficiency. Here, a heterostructured bimetallic TMS anode is fabricated by in situ encapsulating SnS2/MoS2 nanoparticles within an amphiphilic hollow double‐graphene sheet (DGS). The hierarchically porous DGS consists of inner hydrophilic graphene and outer hydrophobic graphene, which can accelerate electron/ion migration and strongly hold the integrity of alloy microparticles during expansion and/or shrinkage. Moreover, catalytic Mo converted from lithiated MoS2 can promote the reaction kinetics and suppress heterointerface passivation by forming a building‐in‐electric field, thereby enhancing the reversible conversion of Sn to SnS2. Consequently, the SnS2/MoS2/DGS anode with high gravimetric and high volumetric capacities achieves 200 cycles with a high initial Coulombic efficiency of >90%, as well as excellent low‐temperature performance. When the commercial Li(Ni0.8Co0.1Mn0.1)O2 (NCM811) cathode is paired with the prelithiated SnS2/MoS2/DGS anode, the full cells deliver high gravimetric and volumetric energy densities of 577 Wh kg−1 and 853 Wh L−1, respectively. This work highlights the significance of integrating spatial confinement and atomic heterointerface engineering to solve the shortcomings of conversion‐/alloying typed TMS‐based anodes to construct outstanding high‐energy LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A variety of strategies have been developed to enhance the cycling stability of Si-based anodes in lithium-ion batteries. Although significant progress has been made in enhancing the cycling stability of Si-based anodes, the low initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE) remains a significant challenge to their commercial application. Herein, pitch-based carbon (C) coated Si nanoparticles (NPs) were wrapped by graphene (G) to obtain Si@C/G composite with a small specific surface area of 11.3 m2 g−1, resulting in a high ICE of 91.2% at 500 mA g−1. Moreover, the integrated utilization of graphene and soft carbon derived from the low-cost petroleum pitch strongly promotes the electrical conductivity, structure stability, and reaction kinetics of Si NPs. Consequently, the synthesized Si@C/G with a Si loading of 54.7% delivers large reversible capacity (1191 mAh g−1 at 500 mA g−1), long cycle life over 200 cycles (a capacity retention of 87.1%), and superior rate capability (952 mAh g−1 at 1500 mA g−1). When coupled with a homemade LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NCM811) cathode in a full cell, it exhibits a promising cycling stability for 200 cycles. This work presents an innovative approach for the manufacture of Si-based anode materials with commercial application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium metal, with its high theoretical capacity and low redox potential, is the most promising next‐generation high‐energy‐density battery anode material. However, the formation of uneven surface layers and dead lithium, significant volume changes in the electrode, and dendrite growth lead to rapid capacity degradation, low cycling stability, and safety issues, limiting the commercialization of lithium metal batteries (LMBs). As a strategy to improve the stability of LMBs, introducinga three‐dimensional (3D) structure with a large surface area can accommodate lithium (Li) inside the structure and homogenize local current density. Also, as a current collector and host material, free‐standing carbon materials, with the advantages of lightness, low cost, electrochemical and mechanical stability, and excellent electronic conductivity, can effectively enhance energy density and cycle performance. In this review, we first discuss the chemical properties of carbon, and then summarize recent research progress related to the 3D structuring and chemical modification of carbon materials as a Li metal host. Finally, we present perspectives on future research for the practical application of free‐standing carbon materials for LMBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Metal selenides have received extensive research attention as anode materials for batteries due to their high theoretical capacity. However, their significant volume expansion and slow ion migration rate result in poor cycling stability and suboptimal rate performance. To address these issues, the present work utilized multivalent iron ions to construct fast pathways similar to superionic conductors (Fe‐SSC) and introduced corresponding selenium vacancies to enhance its performance. Based on first‐principles calculations and molecular dynamics simulations, it is demonstrated that the addition of iron ions and the presence of selenium vacancies reduced the material's work function and adsorption energy, lowered migration barriers, and enhances the migration rate of Li+ and Na+. In Li‐ion half batteries, this composite material exhibites reversible capacity of 1048.3 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 after 100 cycles and 483.6 mAh g−1 at 5.0 A g−1 after 1000 cycles. In Na‐ion half batteries, it is 687.7 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 after 200 cycles and 325.9 mAh g−1 at 5.0 A g−1 after 1000 cycles. It is proven that materials based on Fe‐SSC and selenium vacancies have great applications in both Li‐ion batteries and Na‐ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transition metal sulfides as anode materials for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) have the advantage of high capacity. However, their cycle‐life and rate performance at ultra‐high current density is still a thorny issue that limit the applicability of these materials. In this paper, the carbon‐embedded heterojunction with sulfur‐vacancies regulated by ultrafine bimetallic sulfides (vacancy‐CoS2/FeS2@C) with robust interfacial C‐S‐Co/Fe chemical bonds is successfully synthesized and explored as an anode material for sodium‐ion battery. By changing the ratio of two metal cations, the concentration of anion sulfur vacancies can be in‐situ adjusted without additional post‐treatment. The as‐prepared vacancy‐CoS2/FeS2@C anode material offers ultrahigh rate performance (285.1 mAh g−1 at 200 A g−1), and excellent long‐cycle stability (389.2 mAh g−1 at 40 A g−1 after 10000 cycles), outperforming all reported transition metal sulfides‐based anode materials for SIBs. Both in‐situ and ex‐situ characterizations provide strong evidence for the evolution mechanism of the phases and stable solid‐electrolyte interface (SEI) on the vacancy‐CoS2/FeS2@C surface. The density functional theory calculations show that constructing heterojunction with reasonable concentration of vacancies can significantly increase the anode electronic conductivity. Notably, the assembled vacancy‐CoS2/FeS2@C//Na3V2(PO4)3/C full‐cell shows a capacity of 226.2 mAh g−1 after 400 cycles at 2.0 A g−1, confirming this material's practicability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, various types of electrical facilities and the elevated demand for the wider application of electronic devices in future smart cities are calling for next‐generation batteries of higher energy density, superior rate capability, and extended cycling performance. Multi‐electron systems, based on related reactions and materials, have been considered as promising battery systems for future applications, and massive attempts have been made to achieve their practical use. Therefore, a comprehensive realization of multi‐electron reactions is imperative for the exploitation of innovative multi‐electron materials and steps forward to higher battery performances. In this review, the fundamental conception of multi‐electron reactions and their application bottlenecks are given from both theoretical principles and practice. Multi‐electron materials generally face problems from both thermodynamics and kinetics, including material dissolution, low intrinsic conductivity, low ion transport, etcetera, which seriously hinder their future application. Given all this, current prioritization schemes are summarized, thus making a better understanding of the working mechanisms of the modification methods and inspiring prospects of practical multi‐electron materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Constructing heterostructures containing multiple active components is proven to be an efficient strategy for enhancing the sodium storage capability of anode materials in sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs). However, performance enhancement is often attributed to the unclear synergistic effects among the active components. A comprehensive understanding of the reaction mechanisms on the interfaces at the atomic level remains elusive. Herein, the carbon‐coated Fe3Se4/CoSe (Fe3Se4/CoSe‐C) anode material as a model featuring atomic‐scale contact interfaces is synthesized. This unique heterogeneous architecture offers an adjustable electronic structure, which facilitates rapid reaction kinetics and enhances structural integrity. In situ microscopic and ex situ spectral characterization techniques, along with theoretical simulations, confirm that the heterointerface with strong electric fields promotes Na+ ion migration. Based on solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis, an interface charge storage mechanism is revealed, resulting in the enhanced specific capacity of the anode materials. When employed as an anode in SIBs, the Fe3Se4/CoSe‐C electrode demonstrates excellent rate capabilities (218 mAh g−1 at 7 A g−1) and prolonged cycling stability (258 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1 after 1000 cycles). This work highlights the significance of heterointerface engineering in electrode material design for rechargeable batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Na-ion batteries (SIBs) are a promising replacement for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) for low-cost and large-scale energy storage systems in the forthcoming years after additional in-depth examination and investigation. A significant part of the development of innovative anode materials and their in-depth understanding has come through simulations. Ab initio simulations based on density functional theory (DFT) have been proven to be a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective way to design new anode materials for SIBs. As a result of the identification of graphene, researchers and scientists were influenced to create new two-dimensional (2D) materials. On account of their distinctive physical and chemical properties, the broad expanse of surface, innovative electronic features, and charging ability of 2D materials attract much attention. Many of these characteristics are significant prerequisites for using anodes in batteries. Herein, based on recent research progress, we have reviewed the structures and electrochemical properties of 2D materials as anode for Na-ion batteries from a theoretical perspective. The effective methodologies for high-performance anode materials are provided based on the substantial literature and theoretical studies. Added to that, we have also explored the various techniques such as heterostructure, doping, defect- and strain-engineering of 2D materials for the improvement of the performance of these materials as anodes for SIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pseudocapacitive effect can improve the electrochemical lithium storage capacity at high-rate current density. However, the cycle stability is still unsatisfactory. To overcome this issue, a multivalent oxide with a carbon coating represents a plausible technique. In this work, a CuO–Cu2O@C composite has been constructed by a one-step bilayer salt-baking process and utilized as anode material for lithium-ion batteries. At a current density of 2.0 A g−1, the as-prepared composite delivered a stable discharge capacity of 431.8 mA h g−1 even after 600 cycles. The synergistic effects of the multivalence, the pseudocapacitive contribution from copper, and the carbon coating contribute to the enhanced electrochemical lithium storage performance. Specifically, the existence of cuprous suboxide improves the electrochemical conductivity, the pseudocapacitive effect enhances the lithium storage capacity, and the presence of carbon ensures cycle stability. The testing results show that CuO–Cu2O@C composite has broad application prospects in portable energy storage devices. The present work provides an instructive precedent for the preparation of transition metal oxides with controllable electronic states and excellent electrochemical performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The issues with mg metal anodes, such as dendrite formation, passive film development, poor corrosion resistance, and electrolyte compatibility, were thoroughly detailed. • To address issues with pure magnesium anodes, this review discusses using alloying elements combined with magnesium. • The alloying mechanisms of elements combined with magnesium from groups 13, 14, 15, alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, and transition metals were detailed. Magnesium-ion batteries (MIBs) are promising candidates for lithium-ion batteries because of their abundance, non-toxicity, and favorable electrochemical properties. This review explores the reaction mechanisms and electrochemical characteristics of Mg-alloy anode materials. While Mg metal anodes provide high volumetric capacity and dendrite-free electrodeposition, their practical application is hindered by challenges such as sluggish Mg²⁺ ion diffusion and electrolyte compatibility. Alloy-type anodes that incorporate groups XIII, XIV, and XV elements have the potential to overcome these limitations. We review various Mg alloys, emphasizing their alloying/dealloying reaction mechanisms, their theoretical capacities, and the practical aspects of MIBs. Furthermore, we discuss the influence of the electrolyte composition on the reversibility and efficiency of these alloy anodes. Emphasis is placed on overcoming current limitations through innovative materials and structural engineering. This review concludes with perspectives on future research directions aimed at enhancing the performance and commercial viability of Mg alloy anodes and contributing to the development of high-capacity, safe, and cost-effective energy storage systems. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anode materials based on IV main group elements like Si, Ge, and Sn show great potential for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) due to their high specific capacity and low working potential. However, issues such as volume expansion and lattice pulverization hinder their practical usage. To address these issues for Ge, a novel F127 triblock polymer/acetylene black dual‐assisted strategy is proposed to achieve uniform dispersion of polycrystalline Ge, enabling the preparation of Ge@C nanocomposites via hydrogen reduction. The introduced F127 triblock polymer and acetylene black serves a dual purpose to enhance electrical conductivity and prevent Ge nanoparticles from agglomeration. When tested as anode material for LIBs, the Ge@C nanocomposites exhibit exceptional electrochemical performances, demonstrating a sustained specific discharge capacity of 780 mA h g−1 at 0.2 A g−1 after 100 cycles. Moreover, the capacity remains at 767 mA h g−1 even after 300 cycles at a higher current density of 0.5 A g−1. These enhanced lithium storage performances are attributed to the combined effects of well‐dispersed tiny Ge nanoparticles, uniform carbon coating, and an abundance of defects. These factors effectively mitigate the volume expansion and lattice pulverization of Ge nanoparticles and concurrently enhance their conductivity, leading to improved overall performance in LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aqueous electrolytes are praised for their inherent safety, cost‐effectiveness, and minimal environmental impact, making aqueous potassium‐ion batteries (APIBs) a viable alternative for sustainable and eco‐friendly energy solutions. Researchers have endeavored to anode materials that align with the unique requirements of aqueous electrolytes, and some proud achievements are made. The research about APIBs anode has focused on organic materials and polyanionic compounds, both exhibiting desirable hydrated potassium storage performance, and in recent years, on the development of metal compounds and alloy‐based materials with high theoretical capacities. However, the anode of APIBs faces a narrow electrochemical stability window (ESW) caused by aqueous electrolytes and volume expansion problems due to the large radius of potassium ions, which prevents them from exhibiting appreciable capacity with satisfactory cycling stability. This review meticulously delineates the latest advancements and representative materials for the anode of APIBs and introduces several common aqueous electrolytes and effective improvement strategies for them. The focus is on the advantages and bottlenecks faced by different types of anode materials, culminating in a proposed methodology to enhance APIBs anode efficacy. This review endeavors to furnish novel perspectives on the development and pragmatic deployment of APIBs anodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon materials have long been the primary electrode materials for a series of electrochemical devices, but their applications for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) are still restricted by limited embedding pathways between narrow graphene layers owing to relatively large size of Na+. Here, the narrow interlayer issue is circumvented by enlarging the surface active sites of carbon materials, and the SIB performance is significantly promoted owing to enhanced surface energy storage. To provide more active areas and reduced ion diffusion distance, carbon nanosheets (CNSs) with ultrathin overall structure and highly porous microstructure were prepared by direct pyrolysis of potassium citrate. Potassium species serve as templates and activation agent for organic species carbonization and activation. The CNS exhibits an ultrahigh-specific surface area of 2062.7 m2 g−1 due to its rich porous structure and two-dimensional nanosheet structure. These characteristics make our CNSs have numerous defects and active sites, as well as the reduced diffusion path for sodium-ion diffusion. CNS-700 also shows excellent energy storage performance as electrode material of SIBs. When used as an anode material, the CNS-700 exhibits a reversible capacity of 230 mA h g−1 when cycled at 0.3 A g−1 for 550 cycles. Furthermore, the CNS-700 displays a capacity of 175 mA h g‒1 when the current increases to 2 A g‒1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnesium-ion batteries (MIBs) are promising candidates for lithium-ion batteries because of their abundance, non-toxicity, and favorable electrochemical properties. This review explores the reaction mechanisms and electrochemical characteristics of Mg-alloy anode materials. While Mg metal anodes provide high volumetric capacity and dendrite-free electrodeposition, their practical application is hindered by challenges such as sluggish Mg²⁺ ion diffusion and electrolyte compatibility. Alloy-type anodes that incorporate groups XIII, XIV, and XV elements have the potential to overcome these limitations. We review various Mg alloys, emphasizing their alloying/dealloying reaction mechanisms, their theoretical capacities, and the practical aspects of MIBs. Furthermore, we discuss the influence of the electrolyte composition on the reversibility and efficiency of these alloy anodes. Emphasis is placed on overcoming current limitations through innovative materials and structural engineering. This review concludes with perspectives on future research directions aimed at enhancing the performance and commercial viability of Mg alloy anodes and contributing to the development of high-capacity, safe, and cost-effective energy storage systems.

[Display omitted] The widespread application of Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 (LTO) anode in lithium-ion batteries has been hindered by its relatively low energy density. In this study, we investigated the capacity enhancement mechanism of LTO anode through the incorporation of Na+ cations in an Li+-based electrolyte (dual-cation electrolyte). LTO thin film electrodes were prepared as conductive additive-free and binder-free model electrodes. Electrochemical performance assessments revealed that the dual-cation electrolyte boosts the reversible capacity of the LTO thin film electrode, attributable to the additional pseudocapacitance and intercalation of Na+ into the LTO lattice. Operando Raman spectroscopy validated the insertion of Li+/Na+ cations into the LTO thin film electrode, and the cation migration kinetics were confirmed by ab initio molecular dynamic (AIMD) simulation and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, which revealed that the incorporation of Na+ reduces the activation energy of cation diffusion within the LTO lattice and improves the rate performance of LTO thin film electrodes in the dual-cation electrolyte. Furthermore, the interfacial charge transfer resistance in the dual-cation electrolyte, associated with ion de-solvation processes and traversal of the cations in the solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer, are evaluated using the distribution of relaxation time, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Our approach of performance enhancement using dual-cation electrolytes can be extrapolated to other battery electrodes with sodium/lithium storage capabilities, presenting a novel avenue for the performance enhancement of lithium/sodium-ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Tin dioxide is regarded as an alternative anode material rather than graphite due to its high theoretical specific capacity. Modification with carbon is a typical strategy to mitigate the volume expansion effect of SnO2 during the charge process. Strengthening the interface bonding is crucial for improving the electrochemical performance of SnO2/C composites. Here, SnO2-embedded reduced graphene oxide (rGO) composite with a low graphene content of approximately 5 wt.% was in situ synthesized via a cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB)-assisted hydrothermal method. The structural integrity of the SnO2/rGO composite is significantly improved by optimizing the Sn–O–C electronic structure with CTAB, resulting a reversible capacity of 598 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at a current density of 1 A g−1. CTAB-assisted synthesis enhances the rate performance and cyclic stability of tin dioxide/graphene composites, and boosts their application as the anode materials for the next-generation lithium-ion batteries.

This paper conducts a comprehensive review of the modification approaches for sodium‐ion anode materials fabricated using pitch‐based carbon. The current status of pitch‐based carbon preparation of anode materials for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) by heteroatom doping, morphology construction, and composite materials is introduced. The effects of different modification methods of pitch‐based carbon on their sodium storage performance were analyzed and compared. A variety of pitch‐based carbon modification mechanisms are also elucidated. From a microscopic perspective, the characteristics of pitch‐based carbon applied to the anode of SIBs are expounded, which has a certain guiding significance for the rational design of the microstructure of pitch‐based sodium‐ion battery anode materials. The commercial application of pitch‐based sodium‐ion battery anode materials relies on a simple and effective modification process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the large-scale application of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) in various fields, spent LIBs are considered one of the most important secondary resources. Few studies have focused on recycling anode materials despite their high value. Herein, a new efficient recycling and regeneration method of spent anode materials through the combination of thermal and wet metallurgical approaches and restored graphite performance is presented. Using this method, the lithium recycling ratio from spent anode materials reaches 87%, with no metal impurities detected in the leaching solution. The initial Coulombic efficiency of the recycled graphite (RG) materials is 90.5%, with a reversible capacity of 350.2 mAh/g. Moreover, RG shows better rate performance than commercial graphite. The proposed method is simple and efficient and does not involve toxic substances. Thus, it has high economic value and application potential in graphite recycling from spent LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While germanium‐based anodes for Li‐ion batteries (LIBs) have potential to offer high energy density, their commercialization is impeded by low ionic and electronic conductivity and poor tolerance to volume change during cycling. Here a new quaternary CuGeSiP3 anode is reported to simultaneously overcome these limitations. Synthesized via ball milling process, CuGeSiP3 displays high ionic and electronic conductivity and excellent flexibility to accommodate volume change, attributed to increased structural entropy and reversible formation of favorable intermediates of both electronic and Li ion conductors, as confirmed by experimental measurements and theoretical calculations. When used as an LIB anode, CuGeSiP3 demonstrates large reversible capacity, high Coulombic efficiency, robust cycling stability, and high‐rate capability because it undergoes a reversible lithiation process that involves intercalation and conversion reaction. When composited with layered graphite, the electrode demonstrates exceptional cycling stability (1 261 mA h g−1 after 600 cycles at 400 mA g−1 and 861 mA h g−1 after 1 450 cycles at 20 00 mA g−1) and ultrahigh rate capability (448 mA h g−1 at 20 000 mA g−1). Further, the quaternary, pentanary, and hexanary cation‐disordered phosphides are also synthesized, all having similar Li‐storage superiority, implying the multiple co‐doping strategy is applicable to other material systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The large-scale development of MBene prepared from bulk ternary metal borides (MAB phases) as a novel 2D material has received increasing attention. However, its preparation strategy has been limited. In this work, Mo2Al1-xB2 (MBene) 2D material with a typical accordion structure was successfully synthesized through a detailed study of the optimal preparation process conditions for etching the Al layer from MoAlB using the hydrofluoric acid method. In addition, X-ray diffraction and XPS were used to analyze in detail the crystal structure and surface chemical state of MBene. The micro-morphology of MBene has been analyzed by scanning electron microscopy in combination with energy spectroscopy. The results showed that a clear accordion layer-like structure was present in the MBene synthesized by etching at 60 ℃ for 72 h (referred to as 60-72 h). When used as anodes for LIBs, the 60-72 h samples exhibited excellent electrochemical performance, with a reversible specific capacity of 228.0 mAh/g after 500 cycles at a current density of 1 A/g. The excellent electrochemical performance is mainly attributed to the good electrical conductivity and fast Li-ion diffusion channel of the 2D MBene, resulting in a high pseudo-capacitance effect. The pseudo-capacitance contribution reaches ~86.7% at a scan rate of 2 mV/s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Silicon carbide nanowires (SiCNWs) are considered a promising alternative material for application in lithium-ion batteries, with researchers striving to develop new electrode materials that exhibit high capacity and high charge/discharge rate performance. To gain a deeper understanding of the application of SiCNWs in semiconductor material science and energy supply fields, we investigated the effects of nanoscale and surface lithiation on the electrical and mechanical properties of SiCNWs grown along the [111] direction. First-principles calculation was used to study their geometries, electronic structures, and associated electrochemical properties. Herein, we considered SiCNWs with full hydrogen passivation, full lithium passivation, and mixed passivation at different sizes. The formation energy indicates that the stability of SiCNWs increases with the increasing diameter, and the surface-lithiated SiC nanowires (Li-SiCNWs) are found to be energetically stable. The mixed passivated SiCNWs exhibit the properties of indirect band gap with the increase of lithium atoms on the surface, while the fully lithium passivated nanowires exhibit metallic behavior. Charge analysis shows that a portion of the electrons on the lithium atoms are transferred to the surface atoms of the nanowires and electrons prefer to cluster more near the C atoms. Additionally, Li-SiCNWs still have good mechanical resistance during the lithiation process. The stable open-circuit voltage range and theoretical capacity of these SiCNWs indicate their suitability as anode materials. Method: In this study, Materials Studio 8.0 was used to construct the models of the SiCNWs. And all the density functional theory (DFT) calculations were performed by the Vienna ab initio Simulation Package (VASP). The self-consistent field calculations are performed over a Monkhorst–Pack net of 1 × 1 × 6 k-points. The energy convergence criteria for the self-consistent field calculation were set to 10−5 eV/atom with a cutoff energy of 400 eV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Tin dioxide is regarded as an alternative anode material rather than graphite due to its high theoretical specific capacity. Modification with carbon is a typical strategy to mitigate the volume expansion effect of SnO2 during the charge process. Strengthening the interface bonding is crucial for improving the electrochemical performance of SnO2/C composites. Here, SnO2-embedded reduced graphene oxide (rGO) composite with a low graphene content of approximately 5 wt.% was in situ synthesized via a cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB)-assisted hydrothermal method. The structural integrity of the SnO2/rGO composite is significantly improved by optimizing the Sn–O–C electronic structure with CTAB, resulting a reversible capacity of 598 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at a current density of 1 A g−1. CTAB-assisted synthesis enhances the rate performance and cyclic stability of tin dioxide/graphene composites, and boosts their application as the anode materials for the next-generation lithium-ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

V2CTx MXenes have gained considerable attention in lithium ion batteries (LIBs) owing to their special two-dimensional (2D) construction with large lithium storage capability. However, engineering high-capacity V2CTx MXenes is still a great challenge due to the limited interlayer space and poor surface terminations. In view of this, alkalized and oxidized V2CTx MXenes (OA-V2C) are envisaged. SEM characterization confirms the accordion-like layered morphology of OA-V2C. The XPS technique illustrates that undergoing alkalized and oxidized treatment, V2CTX MXene replaces -F and -OH with -O groups, which are more conducive to pseudocapacitive properties as well as Na ion diffusion, providing more active sites for ion storage in OA-V2C. Accordingly, the electrochemical performance of OA-V2C as anode materials for LIBs is evaluated in this work, showing excellent performance with high reversible capacity (601 mAh g−1 at 0.2 A g−1 over 500 cycles), competitive rate performance (222.2 mAh g−1 and 152.8 mAh g−1 at 2 A g−1 and 5 A g−1), as well as durable long-term cycling property (252 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1 undergoing 5000 cycles). It is noted that the intercalation of Na+ ions and oxidation co-modification greatly reduces F surface termination and concurrently increases interlayer spacing in OA-V2C, significantly expediting ion/electron transportation and providing an efficient way to maximize the performance of MXenes in LIBs. This innovative refinement methodology paves the way for building high-performance V2CTx MXenes anode materials in LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal selenides are widely considered as an emerging anode electrode material for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). Hence, the present study uses a conductive carbon materials matrix such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs) with copper–iron selenide (CuFeSe2). The composites (CuFeSe2@CNTs) are synthesized by a hydrothermal method and examined for electrochemical performance as anode applications in LIBs. Herein, the CuFeSe2@CNTs show excellent specific capacity of 783.7 and 720.6 mA h g−1 at 0.1 and 1 A g−1, respectively. This composite further exhibits a high‐capacity value compared to only FeSe2 and CuFeSe2 and a reversible capacity of 691 mA h g−1 after 200 cycles at 1 A g−1 current density. Moreover, the homogeneous combination of CuFeSe2 nanoflakes and CNTs provides structural stability that reduces the volume change during lithium‐ion interactions and successively improves the conductivity of the complex, which is advantageous for better ion and electron kinetics during the reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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In this study, a rod-like heterogeneous Bi2S3/Sb2S3 was systematically engineered through a simple one-step hydrothermal method and subsequently used as an anode active material for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs). The Bi2S3/Sb2S3 heterostructure electrode exhibits a high initial discharge capacity of 972.2 mAh g−1 and maintains a reversible capacity of 369.4 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles at a current density of 1 A g−1. The outstanding electrochemical performance of the Bi2S3/Sb2S3 electrode can be attributed to the synergistic contributions of the high capacity of Sb2S3 and the excellent stability of Bi2S3. Simultaneously, the abundant heterogeneous phase boundaries formed by Bi2S3 and Sb2S3 provide stable reaction interfaces, better structural integrity, and enhanced Na+ reaction kinetics. This work presents an opportunity to develop heterogeneous Bi2S3/Sb2S3 anode materials with excellent properties, holding promise for potential applications in SIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs) have favorable characteristics in terms of cell voltage and cost efficiency, making them a promising technology for grid‐scale energy storage. The rational design of suitable electrode materials on a theoretical basis, aiming at high power and energy density, is of paramount importance to bring this battery technology to the practical market. In this paper, a series of iron‐based compounds with different non‐metal anions are selectively synthesized to investigate the nature of kinetic differences induced by anionic modulation. A combination of experimental characterization and theoretical calculation reveals that iron phosphide, with its moderate adsorption energy (Ea) and lowest diffusion barrier (Eb), exhibits the best cycling and rate properties at low electrochemical polarization, which is related to the narrow Δd‐p band center gap that facilitates ion transfer. In addition, the optimization of the electrolyte formula results in the carbon‐supported iron phosphide anode running stably over 2000 cycles at 0.5 A g−1 and exhibiting a high rate capacity of 81.1 mAh g−1 at 2 A g−1. The superior electrochemical properties are attributed to the robust KF‐rich solid electrolyte interphase formed by the highly compatible KFSI in ethylene carbonate (EC)/diethyl carbonate (DEC) configuration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The low capacity, poor cycling life, and rapid self‐discharge hinder the development of carbonaceous dual‐ion batteries (DIBs). Conventional preparations of element doping amorphous carbons are cumbersome, complex, and difficult to control the doping element, content, and size. Here, a nitrogen‐oxygen co‐doped amorphous carbon nanomaterial (NDC) with unique 3D vortex‐layered amorphous structure and high doping content is ingeniously prepared via self‐assembly of hydrogen‐bonded organic framework precursors followed by one‐step pyrolysis, and then used for anodes of DIBs. By pairing with a commercial Nylon separator, a self‐supporting independent graphite cathode, and a high‐concentration electrolyte, the NDC‐based DIBs display an ultra‐high specific discharge capacity of up to 519 mAh g−1 at 1 C, low self‐discharge rate of 0.85% h−1, capacity retention of 98.8% after 1500 cycles, and fast kinetic dynamics. This study offers a novel approach to enable carbonaceous nanomaterials for energy‐dense and long‐cycling DIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transition metal oxide-based anode materials possess high theoretical capacity and abundant resources but are limited by severe volume variation and intrinsic low conductivity, thus leading to rapid capacity decay and poor rate performance. Herein, we develop a strategy to prepare porous hierarchical Co3O4 nanopsheres by controlling the annealing process of Co-gluconates, and the Co3O4 nanospheres were successfully wrapped by rGO nanosheets with good dispersion through facile hydrothermal treatment. The Co3O4/rGO electrode demonstrates outstanding lithium storage properties, delivering a reversible capacity of 949.4 mA h g–1 at 500 mA g–1 after 300 cycles and 512.3 mA h g–1 at 2000 mA g–1 even after 1000 cycles. The introduction of rGO nanosheets not only greatly enhances the electron conductivity but also offers high pseudocapacitive lithium storage behavior. More importantly, the integration of porous hierarchical electrode materials with conductive matrices can be generally applied for the development of high-performance energy storage devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Along with great attention to eco-friendly power solutions, sodium ion batteries (SIBs) have stepped into the limelight for electrical vehicles (EVs) and grid-scale energy storage systems (ESSs). SIBs have been perceived as a bright substitute for lithium ion batteries (LIBs) due to abundance on Earth along with the cost-effectiveness of Na resources compared to Li counterparts. Nevertheless, there are still inherent challenges to commercialize SIBs due to the relatively larger ionic radius and sluggish kinetics of Na+ ions than those of Li+ ions. Particularly, exploring novel anode materials is necessary because the conventional graphite anode in LIBs is less active in Na cells and hard carbon anodes exhibit a poor rate capability. Various metal compounds have been examined for high-performance anode materials in SIBs and they exhibit different electrochemical performances depending on their compositions. In this review, we summarize and discuss the correlation between cation and anion compositions of metal compound anodes and their structural features, energy storage mechanisms, working potentials, and electrochemical performances. On top of that, we also present current research progress and numerous strategies for achieving high energy density, power, and excellent cycle stability in anode materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the volume expansion effect during charge and discharge processes, the application of transition metal oxide anode materials in lithium-ion batteries is limited. Composite materials and carbon coating are often considered feasible improvement methods. In this study, three types of TiO2@Fe3O4@C microspheres with a core–double-shell structure, namely TFCS (TiO2@Fe3O4@C with 0.0119 g PVP), TFCM (TiO2@Fe3O4@C with 0.0238 g PVP), and TFCL (TiO2@Fe3O4@C with 0.0476 g PVP), were prepared using PVP (polyvinylpyrrolidone) as the carbon source through homogeneous precipitation and high-temperature carbonization methods. After 500 cycles at a current density of 2 C, the specific capacities of these three microspheres are all higher than that of TiO2@Fe2O3 with significantly improved cycling stability. Among them, TFCM exhibits the highest specific capacity of 328.3 mAh·g−1, which was attributed to the amorphous carbon layer effectively mitigating the capacity decay caused by the volume expansion of iron oxide during charge and discharge processes. Additionally, the carbon coating layer enhances the electrical conductivity of the TiO2@Fe3O4@C materials, thereby improving their rate performance. Within the range of 100 to 1600 mA·g−1, the capacity retention rates for TiO2@Fe2O3, TFCS, TFCM, and TFCL are 27.2%, 35.2%, 35.9%, and 36.9%, respectively. This study provides insights into the development of new lithium-ion battery anode materials based on Ti and Fe oxides with the abundance and environmental friendliness of iron, titanium, and carbon resources in TiO2@Fe3O4@C microsphere anode materials, making this strategy potentially applicable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CuO is recognized as a promising anode material for sodium-ion batteries because of its impressive theoretical capacity of 674 mAh g−1, derived from its multiple electron transfer capabilities. However, its practical application is hindered by slow reaction kinetics and rapid capacity loss caused by side reactions during discharge/charge cycles. In this work, we introduce an innovative approach to fabricating large-area CuO and CuO@Al2O3 flakes through a combination of magnetron sputtering, thermal oxidation, and atomic layer deposition techniques. The resultant 2D CuO flakes demonstrate excellent electrochemical properties with a high initial reversible specific capacity of 487 mAh g−1 and good cycling stability, which are attributable to their unique architectures and superior structural durability. Furthermore, when these CuO flakes are coated with an ultrathin Al2O3 layer, the integration of the 2D structures with outer nanocoating leads to significantly enhanced electrochemical properties. Notably, even after 70 rate testing cycles, the CuO@Al2O3 materials maintain a high capacity of 525 mAh g−1 at a current density of 50 mA g−1. Remarkably, at a higher current density of 2000 mA g−1, these materials still achieve a capacity of 220 mAh g−1. Moreover, after 200 cycles at a current density of 200 mA g−1, a high charge capacity of 319 mAh g−1 is sustained. In addition, a full cell consisting of a CuO@Al2O3 anode and a NaNi1/3Fe1/3Mn1/3O2 cathode is investigated, showcasing remarkable cycling performance. Our findings underscore the potential of these innovative flake-like architectures as electrode materials in high-performance sodium-ion batteries, paving the way for advancements in energy storage technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of highly efficient sodium‐ion batteries depends critically on the successful exploitation of advanced anode hosts that is capable of overcoming sluggish reaction kinetics while also withstanding severe structural deformation triggered by the large radius of Na+‐insertion. Herein, a hierarchically hybrid material with hetero‐Co3S4/NiS hollow nanosphere packaged into a densified N‐doped carbon matrix (Co3S4/NiS@N‐C) was designed and fabricated utilizing CoNi‐glycerate as the self‐sacrifice template, making the utmost of the synergistic effect of hetero‐Co3S4/NiS with strong electric field and rich reaction active‐sites together with the densified outer‐carbon scaffolds with remarkable electronic conductivity and robust mechanical toughness. As anticipated, as‐fabricated Co3S4/NiS@N‐C anode affords remarkable specific capacity, prolonged cycle lifespan up to 2 400 cycles with an only 0.05% fading each cycle at 20.0 A g−1, and excellent rate feature (354.9 mAh g−1 at 30.0 A g−1), one of the best performances for most existing Co3S4/NiS‐based anodes. Ex situ structural characterizations in tandem with theoretical analysis demonstrate the reversible insertion‐conversion mechanism of initially proceeding with Na+ de‐/intercalation and superior heterogeneous interfacial reaction behavior with strong Na+‐adsorption ability. Further, sodium‐ion full cell and hybrid capacitor based on Co3S4/NiS@N‐C anode exhibit impressive electrochemical characteristics on cycling performance and rate capability, showcasing its outstanding feasibility toward practical use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amorphous C has the advantages of low-cost and adjustable interlayer spacing, which exhibits great potential in K+ storage. However, the sluggish diffusion kinetics of K+ in the C lattice and mediocre capacity limit the use of C materials as anodes in potassium-ion batteries (PIBs). Herein, we develop an N-doped hierarchical porous C derived from lignite by a simple carbonization activation process. The resulting N-doped hierarchical porous C delivers reversible capacities of 314 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at 0.1 A g−1 and 124.3 mAh g−1 after 1500 cycles at 1.0 A g−1, when utilized as anode materials for PIBs. The outstanding reversible capacity and excellent cyclic performance can attribute to the porous structure and N doping, which improves electronic conductivity and facilitates K+ insertion. This research aids in the development of high-performance anode materials for PIBs and provides some insights into the manufacturing of heteroatom-doped C materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Lithium metal, with its high theoretical capacity and low redox potential, is the most promising next‐generation high‐energy‐density battery anode material. However, the formation of uneven surface layers and dead lithium, significant volume changes in the electrode, and dendrite growth lead to rapid capacity degradation, low cycling stability, and safety issues, limiting the commercialization of lithium metal batteries (LMBs). As a strategy to improve the stability of LMBs, introducinga three‐dimensional (3D) structure with a large surface area can accommodate lithium (Li) inside the structure and homogenize local current density. Also, as a current collector and host material, free‐standing carbon materials, with the advantages of lightness, low cost, electrochemical and mechanical stability, and excellent electronic conductivity, can effectively enhance energy density and cycle performance. In this review, we first discuss the chemical properties of carbon, and then summarize recent research progress related to the 3D structuring and chemical modification of carbon materials as a Li metal host. Finally, we present perspectives on future research for the practical application of free‐standing carbon materials for LMBs.

Abstract Lithium‐ion batteries with transition metal sulfides (TMSs) anodes promise a high capacity, abundant resources, and environmental friendliness, yet they suffer from fast degradation and low Coulombic efficiency. Here, a heterostructured bimetallic TMS anode is fabricated by in situ encapsulating SnS2/MoS2 nanoparticles within an amphiphilic hollow double‐graphene sheet (DGS). The hierarchically porous DGS consists of inner hydrophilic graphene and outer hydrophobic graphene, which can accelerate electron/ion migration and strongly hold the integrity of alloy microparticles during expansion and/or shrinkage. Moreover, catalytic Mo converted from lithiated MoS2 can promote the reaction kinetics and suppress heterointerface passivation by forming a building‐in‐electric field, thereby enhancing the reversible conversion of Sn to SnS2. Consequently, the SnS2/MoS2/DGS anode with high gravimetric and high volumetric capacities achieves 200 cycles with a high initial Coulombic efficiency of >90%, as well as excellent low‐temperature performance. When the commercial Li(Ni0.8Co0.1Mn0.1)O2 (NCM811) cathode is paired with the prelithiated SnS2/MoS2/DGS anode, the full cells deliver high gravimetric and volumetric energy densities of 577 Wh kg−1 and 853 Wh L−1, respectively. This work highlights the significance of integrating spatial confinement and atomic heterointerface engineering to solve the shortcomings of conversion‐/alloying typed TMS‐based anodes to construct outstanding high‐energy LIBs.

Since limited energy density and intrinsic safety issues of commercial lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), solid-state batteries (SSBs) are promising candidates for next-generation energy storage systems. However, their practical applications are restricted by interfacial issues and kinetic problems, which result in energy density decay and safety failure. This review discusses the formation mechanisms of these issues from the perspective of typical solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) and provides an overview of recent advanced anode engineering for SSBs based on representative anodes including Li metal, graphite-based, and Si-based anodes, summarizing the advantages and problems of each strategy. The development of the anode-free batteries concept is demonstrated as well. Finally, recommendations are proposed for the potential directions in future research in anode engineering for SSBs.